Sony’s highly anticipated sequel to Ghostbusters: Afterlife, titled Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, is projected to have an opening weekend box office of around $45M. This sequel, set in the iconic Ghostbusters universe, follows in the footsteps of its predecessor which opened to $44M during the pandemic in 2021. The franchise has already accumulated an impressive $945.2M through four movies, and with the release of Frozen Empire, it is expected to cross the monumental $1 billion mark in the near future.
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is currently playing in 4,300 theaters, featuring premium large format screenings and IMAX screens. The movie is set to have previews starting at 2 PM on Thursday across approximately 3,600 locations. With spring break in full swing, the timing of the release is aimed at capturing the attention of the audience with 15% of K-12 schools and colleges on break on Friday, March 29. As the weekend progresses, these numbers are expected to rise significantly, offering a prime opportunity for the movie to attract a larger audience.
International Markets
The release of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is not limited to domestic theaters, as the movie is also making its debut in 25 international markets. The top markets include the UK, Mexico, Australia, Spain, and Germany, representing about 55% of the international audience. This global expansion is integral to the success of the movie and its ability to resonate with audiences across various regions.
Ghostbusters: Afterlife served as a reboot of the franchise, aiming to reignite the love for the classic comedy series among fans. With the inclusion of original cast members like Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Ernie Hudson, the movie was well-received by both critics and audiences alike. The warm Spielberg-esque nostalgia combined with a fresh take on the story garnered positive reviews, with an A- CinemaScore and a 64% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Target Audience and Expectations
Ghostbusters has historically appealed to an older demographic, with a majority of viewers being male over the age of 25. However, with the release of Ghostbusters: Afterlife and now Frozen Empire, Sony is also targeting families with teens and older kids. The sequel is expected to perform even better than its predecessor, especially considering the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the entertainment industry. With a heightened interest in theatrical experiences, Frozen Empire has the potential to draw in a diverse audience.
Competition and Reception
As Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire hits theaters, it faces competition from other movies like Immaculate, a horror film featuring Sydney Sweeney. Despite the competition, the buzz surrounding Frozen Empire is strong, and initial reviews indicate a positive reception from critics and audiences. The continued success of the Ghostbusters franchise is a testament to its enduring popularity and ability to captivate audiences across generations.
Overall, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire holds the promise of continuing the legacy of the iconic franchise while introducing new elements to entice both long-time fans and newcomers. With a compelling storyline, engaging characters, and a touch of nostalgia, the movie is poised to leave a significant impact on the box office and solidify its place in the hearts of audiences worldwide.